Purpose: To describe patient & tumor characteristics among rectal cancer patients in Nova Scotia, to determine factors associated with permanent colostomy and oncologic outcomes and to determine the relationship between surgeon knowledge and oncologic outcomes.Methods:The Provincial cancer registry identified new rectal cancer patients from in Nova Scotia. A comprehensive review of inpatient, outpatient and cancer center medical records was used to assemble the cohort. Surgeon knowledge was assessed using a survey with questions pertaining to rectal cancer care.Results: Patient & tumor characteristics were similar between hospitals providing rectal cancer care. Patients treated by high volume cancer center surgeons are less likely to undergo a permanent colostomy or have a local recurrence compared to patients treated elsewhere. Patients treated by surgeons with a high survey score have improved clinical and oncologic outcomes.Conclusions: There is an opportunity to improve rectal cancer care in Nova Scotia.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:LACETR/oai:collectionscanada.gc.ca:NSHD.ca#10222/13506 |
| Date | 28 February 2011 |
| Creators | Richardson, Devon Paula |
| Source Sets | Library and Archives Canada ETDs Repository / Centre d'archives des thèses électroniques de Bibliothèque et Archives Canada |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
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